Great day today!

The holes with pipes were filled in. Only one chap today and he arrived and started at 9.30 on the dot. The holes were duly filled before which, and after lunch, there was a lot of mechanical noise coming from the little street.

I couldn’t have a sneaky look because I had the window men around to measure for some new windows for my old house. Some time, many years ago, aluminium windows were put in. They are single glazed and freezing cold in the winter. I have been planning for some time to feel warmer in winter and to be able to open my windows properly in the summer.

The men arrived and started measuring up. I had been thinking about t front door and we agreed that it would also be a good idea. My friend who is an architect came too so we could discuss all of the options.

After some measuring and discussions I offered a coffee and tea for the architect and we sat down for a chat, in my art studio, which is the old part of my home. The stove top moka went on as did the kettle and I filled my little espresso cups with the rich tasty coffee as well as filling two mugs with tea.

I was so relieved that the window guy and his assistant came. I’ve been trying to pin him down for over a month and winter’s approaching. In typical Italian style it was never a good moment or it was raining too much. Also in true Italian style, they have gone away all smiles, and I am confident that they will do an excellent job. The standard of workmanship is normally excellent.

The very kind guys also brought up some insulating panels which which they had hanging around so I got them for free! Great news as I love a bargain!

They’ll be put onto my bedroom ceiling and my son’s room to keep the house warm in winter. I asked whether or not we should put any panels on the down stairs ceilings but my architect friend said that, that would isolate the upstairs from the downstairs and I didn’t want to be doing that.

I should be starting to put the panels on next week. I was advised, by the window guys, to use foam glue but not the spray foam glue. I should use a gun, like a silicone gun so the glue will be more controllable. I have used a sort of cement glue in the past which I don’t really like, but I think the foam glue will be easier to manage. After I’ve glued the panels on, some plasterboard will cover them with a quick skim of plaster ready for me to paint.

Now I just have to be patient (that’s not going to be easy), wait for his quote (I asked him to give me his very best price) and then I can start to get excited!

I’m looking forward to a quiet day tomorrow so that I can start a painting. I wonder what might turn up.